Is A Famous Parent All It Takes To Become A Model These Days?

There has been a growing buzz around the Models Direct offices lately in relation to model children of famous parents – and whether, in some cases, it’s the look, or the family connections that have landed some of them all the work they’ve been getting lately…

Models Direct - famous parent, or model talent?
Models Direct - famous parent, or model talent?

There has been a growing buzz around the Models Direct offices lately in relation to model children of famous parents – and whether, in some cases, it’s the look, or the family connections that have landed some of them all the work they seem to have been getting lately.

There’s no doubt that face of modelling is changing, and a new cluster of less obviously ‘model-looking’ models, with famous parents, may be just another sign that unique features are not as essential as they used to be when it comes to selling products to consumers these days. We believe that the public does want to see people that they can relate to in advertising campaigns and on the catwalks – but we’re not sure that this is really the reason behind some of the new faces that we’ve noticed popping up all over the place recently.

Models Direct has always been about inclusivity and diversity, but is that what’s happening here, or is it a simple case of cue-jumping? Is the consumer benefitting from the representation of a more diverse range of looks, or are some modelling agents simply providing another privilege that automatically comes with having famous parents? If the point is that more ‘real’ looks are needed in the high-end modelling industry then should more of them be coming from ‘real’ sources, or is it all good?

If you are a fan of shows like Britain’s Next Top Model or Make Me a Supermodel you will be well aware that in some sections of the modelling industry – particularly high end fashion – to become a model often takes hard work and determination alongside a particular ‘look’ that appeals to whomever is offering employment. Whether it’s beautiful hair, gorgeous freckles or just that special ‘something’, it certainly isn’t anything to do with your surname for anyone who doesn’t have a rock star or famous actor in their family tree. But it seems that this is the same area of modelling that the world’s celebrity children are breaking straight into without so much as a casting.

Should we be encouraging the trend that accepts more diverse models into our glossy magazines and onto our catwalks regardless of the reasons why? After all, if they sell products they’re doing the job – right? Or are these privileged offspring just stealing work from more deserving potential models? We’d love to hear your opinions!

Meanwhile check out this ‘Models With Famous Parents’ gallery for a look at some of the competition.